11 reasons behind dropped calls

Dropped calls are a frustrating experience that many of us have encountered at some point. 

Imagine having an important business call or a heartwarming conversation with a loved one, only to have it abruptly cut off. It can be not only inconvenient but also disruptive to our daily lives.

Dropped calls can hinder productivity, strain relationships, and even compromise safety. So, let’s delve into the ins and outs of this occurrence, from the causes to tips on how to prevent it.

What are dropped calls?

A dropped call occurs when a phone call is prematurely terminated without the intention of either party. It can happen at any time, whether you’re indoors, outdoors, or even while traveling.

Understanding the underlying causes is crucial in addressing and preventing this common issue that plagues our daily lives.

Top 11 causes of dropped calls

Anyone may experience dropped calls, and certain factors contribute to their occurrence. Let’s take a look at the 11 common causes behind this issue:

1. Blocked reception

One prevalent culprit behind dropped calls is blocked reception. Physical obstructions like buildings, tunnels, or even dense foliage can impede the smooth flow of signals between your phone and the nearest cell tower.

Imagine standing at the bottom of a towering skyscraper, attempting to have a conversation while your signal ricochets off concrete walls — the result? A dropped call.

2. Cell tower distance

Another factor is the proximity to cell towers. If you find yourself on the fringes of urban sprawl or in remote areas, your phone may struggle to maintain a stable connection.

The signal strength diminishes as you’re farther away from a cell tower. It’s like trying to shout across a vast canyon — your message might not reach its destination intact.

3. Crowded areas

Picture this: you’re at a bustling concert, surrounded by thousands of people eagerly capturing the moment on their smartphones. The sheer density of devices in one location can overload the local network, leading to dropped calls.

In crowded areas, your phone is essentially competing for signal attention, and sometimes, it loses that battle.

4. Dead zones

Dead zones are the bane of any mobile user’s existence. These are areas where signals mysteriously vanish, leaving you stranded in a digital void.

Dead zones often occur in rural or less populated regions where cell towers are scarce, but they can surprise you even in urban environments.

5. Weather interference

Believe it or not, the weather can also play a role in calls dropping. Rain, snow, or even severe thunderstorms can interfere with radio waves, disrupting your signal.

It’s like a radio station getting fuzzy during a storm. Only in this case is your phone signal facing interference from atmospheric conditions.

6. Open apps overload

Our smartphones are veritable powerhouses, capable of running multiple apps simultaneously. However, too many open apps can strain your phone’s resources, leading to connectivity issues. 

It’s akin to trying to have a conversation while juggling a dozen tasks. Eventually, something has to give.

Alternatively, you can check out the top most reliable phone messaging apps here.

7. Outdated operating system

Ignoring those pesky software updates may seem harmless, but an outdated operating system can contribute to calls dropping.

These updates often include improvements to your phone’s connectivity protocols, ensuring smoother communication with cell towers.

9. App settings oversight

Sometimes, the solution is right under our noses. Incorrect app settings can hamper your phone’s ability to maintain a stable connection.

Take a moment to review and ensure that your communication apps are optimized for seamless operation.

10. Device malfunctions

In rare cases, dropped calls may be a symptom of underlying device malfunctions. Hardware issues, software glitches, or a combination of both can compromise your phone’s ability to stay connected.

Treating your device with care and addressing issues promptly can help prevent calls from dropping.

11. Troublesome SIM card

Overlooked by many, a faulty or improperly inserted SIM card can be a silent disruptor of communication.

Ensure that your SIM card is snugly seated and free from damage. Sometimes, a simple reinsertion or replacement can be the fix your phone needs.

How to prevent dropped calls

Thankfully, we can still implement a couple of simple measures to prevent call dropping:

Signal boosters

Investing in a signal booster can significantly enhance your phone’s connectivity. These devices amplify the signal, reducing the likelihood of call dropping.

Wi-Fi calling

Leveraging Wi-Fi calling can be a game-changer. When your cellular signal wavers, Wi-Fi calling seamlessly takes over. This is especially handy in places with weak cell reception.

Airplane mode reset

When all else fails, a simple yet effective trick is toggling your phone into airplane mode and then back out. This brief reset can help your device reestablish a connection with the nearest tower, potentially resolving the dropped call issue.

Keep apps updated

Regularly updating your apps and operating system is akin to maintaining a well-oiled machine. By staying current, you ensure your phone operates at its best, minimizing the chances of dropped calls.

Optimize app settings

Take a proactive approach by periodically reviewing and optimizing your app settings. Ensure your communication apps are configured for optimal performance, reducing the risk of connectivity hiccups.

How to fix dropped calls in a cloud-based system

If you’re using a cloud-based system like a softphone to make calls, here are some tips to ensure you avoid dropping them:

• Check your internet speed to ensure it is stable and fast enough for reliable calls.
• Contact your internet service provider (ISP) if you are consistently experiencing dropped calls in a cloud-based system.
• Verify that your router is functioning correctly and has the necessary configurations for optimal performance.
• Consider using a wired connection instead of relying on Wi-Fi for more stable and interference-free connectivity.

Say goodbye to dropped calls

As we bid farewell to the possibility of dropped calls, the benefits extend beyond personal convenience.

In call centers, where every interrupted conversation is a missed opportunity, preventing calls from dropping becomes paramount for customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Yet, the universal impact is profound — seamless communication enhances productivity and satisfaction for individuals and businesses alike. This fosters a connected world where getting cut off mid-call is a thing of the past.